Can Axolotls Survive Underwater? This is one of the many questions aquatic life enthusiasts has asked severally to know if they can survive underwater. Axolotls are fascinating creatures and we will get to know more about them.
The Axolotls
Axolotls are native to Mexico and differ greatly from other amphibians because of their features and characteristics.
Axolotls do not go through complete metamorphosis but they keep their aquatic form throughout their entire life. This alone has made many ask if they can survive underwater.
Aquatic Adaptations of Axolotls
The Axolotls are scientifically known as Ambystoma mexicanum and they exhibit several adaptations which makes them survive in aquatic environments. They include:
1. Gilled Permanence
Axolotls do not undergo a complete metamorphosis like other salamanders. Instead they maintain their gills and aquatic feature which makes them fully adapt to life underwater.
2. External Gills
Axolotls are known to have external gills which looks like feathery tufts on two sides of their head. Their external gills extract oxygen from the water, which enables them to respire without having to come up to the surface of the water.
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3. Buoyancy Control
They have a swim bladder that helps them swim perfectly. The air sac which is located inside their body, helps them adjust their position of water which ensures swift movements while swimming at different depths.
4. Lack of Eyelids
Unlike their counterparts, they do not have eyelids. A thin layer of skin keeps their eyes protected thereby providing visibility and also adaptability in low lights conditions while in their habitats.
5. Regenerative Abilities
Axolotls can regenerate their lost body parts like, the limbs, their tails and even some part of their hearts and brain. This also contributes to their survival in their habitat where injuries occurs regularly.
Can Axolotls Survive Out of Water?
Although axolotls can survive underwater, they have no rudimentary lungs and they can breathe air from the atmosphere.
In few conditions, the axolotls can go up to the surface of the water to get air when they are in an area when oxygen is insufficient.
However, staying out of water for a longer period can cause stress for them and they are most comfortable being underwater consistently.
Maintenance in Captivity
For anyone that intends to keep them as pets or already doing so, it is important to keep them in an environment that is a replica of their natural habitat.
A good water depth, good filtration and a balanced diet helps boost their overall wellbeing.
Also note that axolotls are very sensitive when there are changes in water quality so maintaining a good hygiene is paramount.